Tool Cleanup
Sometimes the smallest workshop projects turn out to be the most satisfying, especially when an old family tool is involved.
An Unexpected Workshop Project
Sometimes a minor project comes up out of nowhere. This little project came about because I was cleaning the tools out of my tool bucket before putting them away after a recent project that we'll talk about in just a minute. In this case, it's just this medium size, relatively small trowel. Let's get into it.
A Well-Used Trowel
This trowel's moment on the bench was nearly incidental. I was pulling tools out of my tool bucket and cleaning them up - getting the mud off them, oiling up any metal parts and putting them away. You might ask... why was the trowel in your tool bucket in need of cleaning?
That's a simple one - aw week or two ago we put some pavers under the rain barrel, and this trowel was particularly useful in adding more sand under the pavers to level them up after getting them in place.
A Tool with History
As I was cleaning the mud off the trowel I took a moment to remember that it was given to me way back in 1999 or 2000 from a German relative - and that it was probably from the 1950s or '60's. It was then that I decided this little square plaster trowel needed a little bit more than a clean up. You can see the handle showed evidence of years of use!
The blade itself had some surface rust and dried old plaster up near the frog. It wouldn't take much so I figured - why not! So I took a razor blade to remove the old paint from the handle.
It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see. - Henry David Thoreau
Cleaning the Blade
The first step to giving this ol' trowel a new life was to clean up the blade. A little elbow grease with the sanding block, scouring pad and some steel wool, cleaned it up nicely.
I gave some thought to painting the handle red again, bringing it to what it probably looked like back in the day. But, I wanted to try something different this time, so instead of paint or stain, I just put a few coats of Howard's Beeswax and Orange Oil Feed-N-Wax. This was the second time I've used it, although I don't recall what I used it on. It left a nice warm color on the handle of this trowel which is what I was going for.
Anyway - thanks for stopping by and - see ya' next time!
Have used this product for several years. Most excellent. One tip: if cool then rather thick as bees wax hardens. Leave in sun about 30 min, softens wax , shake to mix oils with wax & good to go. Applied to cabinets built in 1977 and seriously: they look new. Since these are dark oak, 1st touched up a few areas where white wood showing thru dark stain. Best product is color match: Howard Restore-A-Finish, let dry over night; then follow thru with this Howard Feed-N-Wax. Even touched up wood on antique lamp base and butcher block knife holder. All came out fantastic as the oils absorb & conditions the wood from totally drying out and natural bees wax protect. After it dries, not shiny and preserves natural beauty of wood. Applied with small portion of microfiber cloth and opened windows to air out scent, which dissipates reasonably fast. This was my 3rd purchase of product to use various cabinets. Highly Recommended. - Amazon User Review, March 23, 2024
A Simple Finish
After that, a quick coat of amber shellac sealed the handle and enriched the color. I absolutely love the way this little trowel cleaned up.
Ready for Another Season
I think I had a total of 20 to 30 minutes into this trowel, but it was fun! Now - it's almost time to get to work on some outside projects and I can't wait! Oh, and tomorrow (4/8/2024) is the great Total Eclipse of 2024, and 173 is very close to being in the path of totality! The whole state is going nuts over it, and we even picked up some eclipse glasses - fun!
Anyway - thanks for stopping by and - see ya' next time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plaster trowel used for?
A plaster trowel is designed for applying, smoothing, and finishing plaster, mortar, and similar materials. Smaller plaster trowels are also useful for many general home and garden tasks, including leveling sand, mixing small batches of mortar, and working in tight spaces.
Why clean garden and masonry tools after each project?
Cleaning tools immediately after use prevents mortar, concrete, plaster, and soil from hardening on the surface. Regular cleaning also reduces rust, extends the tool's life, and keeps it working properly for the next project.
Can rusty hand tools usually be restored?
In most cases, yes. Light surface rust can often be removed with sandpaper, steel wool, or a scouring pad, followed by a protective coating of oil or wax. As long as the tool hasn't suffered severe corrosion or structural damage, many older tools can continue serving for decades.
What is Howard Feed-N-Wax used for?
Howard Feed-N-Wax is a wood conditioner made with beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. It's commonly used to nourish dry wood, restore warmth to old handles and furniture, and provide a light protective finish without creating a heavy surface coating.
Why apply shellac after conditioning a wooden handle?
Shellac adds a thin protective layer that helps seal the wood while enhancing its natural color. Applied lightly over a conditioned handle, it offers protection without hiding the character and wear that make older tools so appealing.
Should vintage tool handles always be repainted?
Not necessarily. While repainting can return a tool to its original appearance, many restorers choose to preserve worn wooden handles because they reflect decades of honest use. The decision depends on whether the goal is historical accuracy, practical use, or simply personal preference.
Why do old hand tools often have hardwood handles?
Traditional hardwoods such as beech, maple, and ash were commonly used because they are durable, comfortable to hold, and capable of lasting for generations. Even after years of use, many old wooden handles respond beautifully to careful cleaning and refinishing.
Is every tool restoration a major project?
Not at all. Some of the most satisfying restorations take less than an hour. Removing rust, cleaning accumulated dirt, conditioning the wood, and protecting the finish can dramatically improve both the appearance and usability of a well-made tool.
Why keep old tools instead of replacing them?
Many vintage tools were built with excellent materials and simple, repairable designs. Restoring them is often less expensive than buying new replacements, and each tool carries its own history—whether from a previous owner, a family member, or years of faithful service in the workshop.
Why are small workshop projects so rewarding?
Small projects offer immediate satisfaction. In just a short amount of time, an overlooked tool can become clean, useful, and ready for another season of work. They also remind us that caring for our tools is part of the craft itself, not merely preparation for it.
That last answer feels especially fitting because it's exactly what this post demonstrates.
Keywords
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